Assessment of S-101 Electronic Navigational Chart Accuracy and Reliability through Validation

Developed in the early 2010s, the S-100 Universal Hydrographic Data Model (S-100 standard) was created to address the limitations of the existing S-57 standard and to support the efficient exchange and integration of maritime safety and traffic data globally. The S-57 standard was last updated in 2000 with version 3.1, while the S-100 standard saw its most recent publication in 2024 with version 5.2.0. The S-101 Electronic Navigational Chart (ENC) mainly serves as a conversion or extension of S-57 ENC-based data, although the direct production of S-101 is also under consideration. The conversion technique involves using a converter provided by the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO), but it requires validation to ensure the converted data’s conformity, accuracy, and reliability. In this study, we focus on enhancing the accuracy and reliability of data by incorporating ENC validation into the ENC production process. The S-100 standard processes real-time hydrographic data collected from various shipborne sensors and presents it through ENC ensuring the precise application of navigational information. However, if the standard lacks precision, the reliability of sensor-derived data may decrease necessitating verification and refinement to maintain data quality and operational effectiveness. Implementing this will enhance data quality in producing S-101 ENC and contribute to maritime safety and traffic efficiency. Additionally, standardizing the S-101 ENC production process is expected to maintain consistency and reliability in global maritime data management.